Kids and climbing – it’s a natural fit.
Just ask any parent whose child navigates the garden wall, or clambers up the living room furniture.
And these days, youngsters can nurture their climbing inclinations beyond the playground. Rock walls for kids are cropping up in cities everywhere, including Houston.
The Children’s Museum of Houston provides the perfect introduction to try rock wall climbing in a safe, non-threatening environment.
The museum features Mt. Boulder, a small-scale climbing wall that’s ideal for a child’s first attempt. It has colorful hand & foot holds, and a super soft mat for landing.
There are additional opportunities around Houston for kids to take climbing to greater heights as their confidence grows. Houston’s Texas Rock Gym and Stone Moves Indoor Rock Climbing provide instruction in belaying, bouldering, top-roping, climbing safety and etiquette.
Rock climbing also encourages a range of skill development. Even kindergartners can learn problem-solving with the most basic climbs. Foot and hand-holds become personal puzzles which foster critical thinking. The simplest climb can surprise kids with the thrill of accomplishment and success.
And climbing is something the whole family can share. In fact, the sport of climbing – indoor and outdoor - has become one of the nation’s favorite family activities for weekends and vacations.
Austin’s Reimers Ranch Park, a popular weekend destination for families, provides outdoor climbing.
National parks have also embraced the trend, offering guided rock climbing excursions and lessons. Yosemite, Zion and the Grand Tetons offer climbing for all ages and abilities.
For more information on kids' climbing in Houston, visit Children’s Museum of Houston,
Texas Rock Gym, and Stone Moves.
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